It was the calm after the rains that drew 20 birders to Boiler Bay. The morning was gray but with no wind or precipitation. Meeting in the parking lot at Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint 20 birders, from as far away as Indianapolis IN and Yachats OR, gathered in a circle to introduce themselves to each other before scoping out the area for sea and shore birds . . . but not before immediately spotting Gray Whales just north of the parking area. So it took a while to get everyone together and to direct their attention to birding!

During stops from Boiler Bay to Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area, field guide Mark Elliott continuously set up his scope so others could get close views of Black Oystercatchers, Pacific Loons, Harlequin Ducks, and more. Brown Pelicans and Surf Scoters were migrating south in large and numerous groups. In all, it was a very pleasant morning and an enjoyable birding experience.

Sightings of the Day
Great Blue Heron
Song Sparrow
Brown Pelican
Pacific Loon
Western Grebe
Surf Scoter
Common Murre
Pelagic Cormorant
Savannah Sparrow
European Starling
Brewer's Blackbird
Belted Kingfisher
American Crow
American Robin
Black Oystercatcher
Black Turnstone
Harlequin Duck
Red-necked Grebe
Common Loon
Stellar's Jay
Western Gull
California Gull
Bald Eagle